A Royal affair

Hey there, time traveller!This article was published 16/11/2010 (2214 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Manitoba MP Pat Martin was asked at a news conference this morning whether he had any comment on the engagement of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Martin responded that as an Irishman he really isn't a royal watcher.

KIRSTY WIGGLESWORTH / THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Prince William finally became engaged to longtime girlfriend Kate Middleton, giving her his late mother's engagement ring.

"I'm more interested in the Osborne family than the royal family," Martin quipped.

He followed it up by saying that he actually thinks Canada should ditch the monarchy long before William gets near the throne.

When the current Queen dies, it will be "time for Canada to grow up," Martin said.

He quickly added he wasn't sure whether that was the position of the NDP or just himself.

But deputy leader Thomas Mulcair, sitting at Martin's side, said he agreed.

Considering most polls conducted in recent years -- including several ahead of Queen Elizabeth's visit to Canada last summer -- show at least half of Canadians, and often more than 60 per cent -- agree Canada's monarchy ties should end with Queen Elizabeth II's reign, perhaps the NDP are onto something.

You can comment on most stories on winnipegfreepress.com. You can also agree or disagree with other comments.
All you need to do is be a Winnipeg Free Press print or e-edition subscriber to join the conversation and give your feedback.